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Hawaii’s breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant natural colors create the perfect backdrop for capturing cherished family memories. Oahu, in particular, offers a variety of stunning locations where families can take beautiful photos, from serene beaches to majestic mountain settings. Whether you're looking for the perfect sunrise or sunset, these locations provide unique opportunities to preserve your family's special moments.
Oʻahu offers a wide variety of landscapes—from soft white sand beaches and turquoise waters to tropical gardens and dramatic cliffs. Think about your location and let it inspire your wardrobe. For example:
Gone are the days when matching white shirts and jeans were the only option for family photos—but that doesn’t mean you have to avoid matching altogether. If coordinating identical outfits feels fun and meaningful to your family, go for it! The most important thing is that everyone feels comfortable and confident.
That said, many families today are leaning toward a more natural, visually balanced approach. Instead of exact matches, consider working with a cohesive color palette that creates harmony in your photos while still allowing each person to showcase their own personality. Think soft neutrals as a base—like white, beige, tan, or light gray—paired with a few accent tones such as blush, sage, dusty blue, or coral. You can even mix in one or two subtle patterns, like florals, stripes, or island-inspired prints, to add texture and interest without overpowering the image.
Pastel shades and earth tones tend to photograph beautifully in this setting. Soft hues like blush pink, sage green, sandy beige, light blue, and cream reflect the warmth of the golden sun and enhance the tropical backdrop. These colors also flatter a wide range of skin tones and help create a timeless, serene look that feels connected to the environment.
In contrast, certain colors can be too harsh for this kind of lighting. Neon shades, bright greens or oranges, often reflect poorly on the skin and can cause unnatural color casts in photos. Similarly, bold reds can be overpowering in a serene beach or mountain setting, drawing attention away from the faces and emotion in the shot. Solid black is another tricky choice; it tends to absorb light, which can make images look heavy or flat, especially against Oʻahu’s vibrant, sunlit scenery.
Many family photographers in Oʻahu love to capture candid, playful moments—walking on the sand, playing with your kids, or dancing in the surf. Choose outfits that allow you to move freely and feel confident.
For Moms: flowing maxi dresses and breezy rompers are popular choices. They not only photograph beautifully as they catch the ocean breeze, but also provide ease of movement and a relaxed, feminine feel. Look for lightweight fabrics that drape well and feel good against the skin. Dresses with adjustable straps, stretchy waistlines, or wrap designs can add both comfort and style.
For Dads: soft, breathable button-down shirts with sleeves that can be rolled up create a casual yet polished look. Linen, cotton, or gauze fabrics work especially well in Hawaiʻi’s warm climate. Paired with relaxed-fit chinos or shorts in neutral tones, this kind of outfit allows dads to pick up their kids, join in on playful moments, and stay cool while still looking sharp.
For Kids: comfort is key. You’ll want outfits that they can move, play, and cuddle in—nothing too stiff, scratchy, or fussy. Think cotton rompers, soft tees and shorts, or simple sundresses. Clothes that are too tight or overly styled can lead to discomfort and distractions, which makes candid moments harder to capture. Plus, children are often the most animated during photo sessions, so choosing outfits they can run, jump, or snuggle in helps your photographer preserve the true essence of their energy and spirit.
When preparing for your family photo session in Oʻahu, it’s easy to focus on outfits and colors—but the small details can make just as much of a difference in how your photos turn out. Start with hair. The island breeze is no joke, especially along the coastline, so it's best to embrace natural, wind-friendly hairstyles. Loose waves, braids, low buns, or half-up styles tend to hold up better than overly styled looks. For kids, keeping hair out of their eyes helps avoid constant fussing and ensures their faces are visible in photos.
Shoes are another detail that often gets overlooked. On most beaches, you’ll likely end up barefoot—which not only looks natural and relaxed but also fits the setting perfectly. If you do bring shoes, opt for neutral-toned sandals or flip-flops that are easy to slip on and off. Avoid bright or bulky footwear that can distract from the overall aesthetic or become a hassle during movement shots.
Lastly, consider bringing a backup outfit—especially if you're photographing young children. Whether it’s a spilled drink, a sandy tumble, or a surprise splash from a wave, it’s always good to have an extra shirt, dress, or onesie on hand. Having a fresh option can help avoid stress during the shoot and keep everyone looking their best from start to finish.
Your family photography session in Oʻahu is a chance to capture joy, connection, and the beauty of your surroundings. Choose outfits that feel true to your family, complement the natural landscape, and allow you to enjoy the experience. When in doubt, consult your photographer—they’ve likely seen what works best across Oʻahu’s many beautiful settings and can help guide your wardrobe choices for the perfect photo session.
Create everlasting memories in HawaiiKim Ebert is an Oahu couple photographer specializing in captivating Hawaii couple photography.
Kim Ebert is an Oahu family photographer specializing in captivating Hawaii family photography.
